Kanō Masanobu: The Architect of Japanese Art Kanō Masanobu (1434? – August 2, 1530, Kyoto) stands as a monumental figure in the history of Japanese art, not merely for his prolific output but fundamentally for establishing the Kanō school—a lineage that would dominate Japanese painting for over three centuries. Often considered the founder of this prestigious institution, Masanobu’s influence extends far beyond his own creations, shaping artistic conventions and profoundly impacting the visual landscape of Japan. His life coincided with a period of immense political and cultural transition –…